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Trending in Oupa Makhubela’s World
Latest Album
African Spirit
Released Aug 18, 2003
Trending Globally
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Story
Quick Facts
Born
1957
1957
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Oupa "Poy Poy" Makhubela is a veteran Afro-fusion guitarist from South Africa, renowned for his soulful mastery of the township jazz style. He is a founding member of the influential band Unity, which emerged from the vibrant South African music scene in the mid-1970s. Before Unity, Makhubela's career began around 1972–1973, when he recorded with the group The Young Movers. In 1975, he co-founded Unity with other musicians, including Jeff Radine, George Legobye, Edward Modiselle, and Robert Moema, and with them recorded albums like "Pula Yana," "Baba Kuwe," and "Maninjara."
Makhubela's musical journey has seen him collaborate with many of South Africa's most iconic artists, including Brenda Fassie, Don Laka, Vusi Mahlasela, Mara Louw, Dorothy Masuka, and Abigail Kubheka. He also worked with popular Kwaito bands like Alaska, Boom Shaka, and Trompies. His solo discography includes the 2003 album "African Spirit" and the 2006 album "Stand Up." Songs like "Vibe In Pretoria," "Makoti," and "April 14th" are some of his notable solo tracks.
A widely traveled musician, Makhubela has taken his sound to international stages in countries such as the USA, Denmark, Egypt, and Switzerland. As the last surviving member of the original Unity lineup, he continues to perform with a reconstituted version of the band, keeping their legacy alive. Makhubela’s deep ties to South Africa's music history, both through his early career and his work with Unity and other artists, cement his status as a key figure in the country's Afro-fusion and township jazz genres.